Design Principles for Future Redevelopment

How do you think this community asset should be developed eventually?

Regardless of whether some municipal facilities are included at 1903 Mt Newton Cross Road, it's important the property and community value of this site is realized and any potential future development contributes to the vision of the Saanichton Village Design Plan.

Council wants to hear directly from residents on its direction for the future of 1903 Mt Newton Cross Road, the largest site in Saanichton Village. This site is a significant community asset and it is important Council and the community have a shared vision for its future.

District of Central Saanich Council has endorsed the following principles to guide future redevelopment for 1903 Mt Newton Cross Rd.

1. A mixed-use development with housing, commercial space and public amenities that contributes to the vibrancy of the Saanichton Village and surrounding area.
2. A maximum 6 story design with a mix of building heights to balance/create steps from the streetscape and neighbouring properties.
3. Reduce potential impacts on neighbouring properties.
4. Maximize community amenities, including public outdoor space.
5. Increase housing supply in a village centre
6. Create a high-quality pedestrian environment

In addition to the Site Design Principles for 1903 Mt Newton, Council has endorsed a series of more detailed design objectives, which are detailed in the questions below. Please share your feedback. Thank you!

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* 1. Commercial

Active ground-floor commercial uses with large windows and inviting entrances to enhance the street experience.

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* 2. Commercial

Prefer commercial uses such as a medical office, childcare and restaurant/cafes, (but these are not required).

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* 3. Commercial

Provide approximately 15,000 square feet of commercial space (can be flexible).

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* 4. Public Space Amenities

Maximize community amenities by including as many as feasible.

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* 5. Public Space Amenities

Create a high-quality pedestrian environment.

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* 6. Public Space Amenities

A design with green space is preferred. Include a plaza or courtyard open to the public, consider use for commercial tenants as well as community events.

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* 7. Height and Massing

Along the streetscape (Wallace and Mt Newton), up to six-storey, mixed-use buildings would be appropriate, with commercial at grade.

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* 8. Height and Massing

Four-storey maximum building height towards residential neighbourhood (West & South) with increased setbacks and screening.

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* 9. Housing

There is flexibility about the type, tenure and size of housing units, including smaller studio and one-bedrooms.

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* 10. Housing

Ideally, achieve a minimum of 10% affordable housing and work to achieve more affordable and attainable housing.

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* 11. Parking
  • Prioritize underground for residential parking, but not for commercial.
  • Meet current District parking policies.
  • Should recognize rural area and need for vehicles.

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* 12. Accessibility

  • May include fully accessible units (e.g. the minimum of 5% as required by BC Housing), versus adaptable ones as likely to be required under the BC Building Code.
  • It is recommended that commercial units have automatic doors.

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* 13. Active and Alternative Transportation

Though not required, the priority areas for active and alternative transportation include:
  • Multi-use pathways on internal roads.
  • Connectivity to existing active transportation infrastructure.
  • Increased residential bicycle storage (with e-bike facilities).

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* 14. Sustainability

  • Sustainable design is important, but the latest BC Building Code requirements are acceptable.
  • Incorporate green space and natural assets for community use.

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* 15. Please provide additional feedback or questions you have about the design vision for 1903 Mt Newton Cross Rd

Please share a little about yourself to help us understand who has shared their insights in this survey

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* 16. In which area of the District of Central Saanich do you live?

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* 17. What is your age category?

For more information about this project or if you need help to complete the survey, please call 250.652.4444 or email municipal.hall@csaanich.ca

Personal information is collected by the District of Central Saanich (DOCS) under the authority of the Community Charter/Local Government Act and the DOCS bylaws. It is only used for purposes necessary and consistent with operation of DOCS services and programs